PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans accepted the award from Superintendent of Schools Alberto Carvalho and gave an inspiring speech in front of a full house of outstanding school volunteers and exemplary Dade partners.

“Education is at the core of what we do and to be able to be up here with Superintendent Carvalho, with Dr. Padron, recognizing Miami Music Project and others, it is truly an incredible feeling,” said Sirmans.

“PAMM is a warm welcoming place and we try to make that part of every single thing that we do. We call ourselves a 21st century museum because we believe that 21st century museums are here to authenticate, and here to be a part of this conversation.”

Sirmans added, “Education as being a means of looking at the world, we talk about art objects as being catalysts for different views, and we have the great honor of working with Miami’s own artists. I think it’s also important to note that it’s not necessarily about becoming an artist when a child is touched by art, but it is truly about seeing the world differently, about hearing things differently, about being open to conversation and dialogue in ways that are creative and hopefully substantial.”

Other honorees included Miami Dade College President Eduardo J.Padrón, Ph.D. and the Miami Music Project.